UFC 319 on August 16, 2025, at the United Center in Chicago will feature a blockbuster middleweight title clash between reigning champion Dricus du Plessis and undefeated phenom Khamzat Chimaev. This matchup pits the relentless pace, awkward style, and championship grit of South Africa’s first UFC titleholder against the suffocating wrestling and finishing instincts of one of MMA’s most dominant newcomers.
Dricus du Plessis
Dricus du Plessis (23–2) has been on a meteoric rise since entering the UFC, claiming the middleweight championship and defending it twice. Known for his unorthodox striking angles, heavy pressure, and underrated submission game, “Stillknocks” has dispatched elite names like Robert Whittaker, Israel Adesanya, and Sean Strickland.
His most recent outing was a unanimous decision victory in his rematch with Strickland at UFC 312, proving his ability to go five hard rounds with a high-volume striker. Du Plessis thrives in chaotic exchanges, mixing power shots with opportunistic grappling, and has shown a champion’s ability to adapt mid-fight.
Dricus du Plessis – Last 5 Fights:
1. Win vs. Sean Strickland – Decision (Unanimous) (UFC 312, Feb 2025) – Defended UFC Middleweight Championship
2. Win vs. Israel Adesanya – Submission (Face Crank) (UFC 305, Aug 2024) – Defended UFC Middleweight Championship
3. Win vs. Sean Strickland – Decision (Split) (UFC 297, Jan 2024) – Won UFC Middleweight Championship
4. Win vs. Robert Whittaker – TKO (Punches) (UFC 290, Jul 2023) – Middleweight Title Eliminator
5. Win vs. Derek Brunson – TKO (Corner Stoppage) (UFC 285, Mar 2023)
Khamzat Chimaev
Khamzat Chimaev (14–0) enters his first UFC title fight carrying the aura of an unstoppable force. A three-time Swedish national wrestling champion, “Borz” has combined elite grappling with vicious ground-and-pound and slick submissions to dominate every opponent he has faced.
In his last bout, Chimaev dismantled Robert Whittaker in just over three minutes, submitting the former champion with a face crank at UFC 308. He holds wins over Kamaru Usman, Gilbert Burns, and Kevin Holland, with the majority of his victories coming inside the first round. His pressure is relentless, and his ability to seamlessly transition from striking to takedowns makes him a nightmare matchup for most middleweights.
Khamzat Chimaev – Last 5 Fights:
1. Win vs. Robert Whittaker – Submission (Face Crank) (UFC 308, Oct 2024)
2. Win vs. Kamaru Usman – Decision (Majority) (UFC 294, Oct 2023)
3. Win vs. Kevin Holland – Submission (Brabo Choke) (UFC 279, Sep 2022)
4. Win vs. Gilbert Burns – Decision (Unanimous) (UFC 273, Apr 2022) – Fight of the Night
5. Win vs. Li Jingliang – Technical Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) (UFC 267, Oct 2021)
Stylistic Matchup
This fight is a fascinating clash between du Plessis’ awkward, high-output striking mixed with opportunistic submissions, and Chimaev’s suffocating wrestling and blitz-style offense. Du Plessis has proven durable and thrives in extended wars, while Chimaev has yet to be pushed deep into championship rounds against elite opposition.
The champion’s key will be defending early takedowns, creating scrambles, and forcing Chimaev into later rounds where fatigue may become a factor. The challenger will look to close the distance early, secure dominant positions, and hunt for a quick finish before du Plessis can find his rhythm.
Prediction
While Chimaev’s dominance has been undeniable, du Plessis’ championship experience, composure under fire, and ability to absorb and return fire make him a dangerous first title test. If the fight extends beyond Round 3, the momentum may swing toward the champion.
However, Chimaev’s explosive entries, top control, and finishing instincts are likely to create early danger. Given his track record of quick finishes, it is difficult to bet against the undefeated contender.
Prediction:
Khamzat Chimaev def. Dricus du Plessis via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke), Round 2
Expect Chimaev to close the distance early, land a takedown, and begin his trademark smothering top control. Du Plessis may defend well initially, but the accumulation of pressure will create an opening for Chimaev to secure the choke and capture UFC gold.